Creating Community and Healing through Joy: The Story of Leisure League

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As the holiday season approaches, many people experience a surge of emotional heaviness, especially during a time traditionally associated with togetherness. Research shows that 61 percent of Americans grapple with feelings of isolation and sadness during these months, a phenomenon often referred to as the “holiday blues.” This emotional burden is particularly pronounced among marginalized communities, such as Black women, who face additional challenges during these times of cultural expectations and communal obligations.

The Birth of Leisure League

In response to these struggles, Birmingham-area natives Elizabeth “Liz” Southern and her college best friend Morgan Lee established a hobby club called Leisure League. Their aim? To facilitate healing through connection and creativity. Since launching in February, Leisure League’s popularity has skyrock, boasting over 7,000 Instagram followers and hosting a variety of monthly events designed to nurture community bonds and unleash creativity.

Activities range from pottery and sushi-making workshops to skincare sessions, all carefully curated to provide women with a constructive outlet. Here, participants not only create art but also forge friendships, fostering a sense of togetherness that dispels feelings of isolation.

The Essence of Community for Black Women

Although Leisure League welcomes women from all backgrounds, its majority demographic is Black women. This focus is intentional, as Lee emphasizes the need for spaces where they can be their authentic selves, free from societal pressures. “Being able to relate and connect with other Black women helps alleviate the stressors,” she notes, underlining the specific challenges Black women face in today’s climate.

Both Southern and Lee understand the profound emotional toll of isolation. Southern, a mental health professional, recognizes creativity as a therapeutic outlet. “It keeps me present because my mind is always running,” she explains. By engaging in creative activities, she finds solace and rejuvenation, a sentiment echoed throughout the community they’ve built.

Overcoming Barriers

Initially, Southern faced trepidation about launching the club. With a small circle of friends, she reached out to Lee and her sister for support. Lee immediately embraced the idea, sharing how she too had felt the pang of loneliness and the longing for connection. Together, they initiated a series of Zoom meetings to brainstorm activities and strategies for their new venture.

The inaugural event—a mixology class—set the tone for what Leisure League would become. Initially modest in attendance, it blossomed into a popular gathering, where women not only participated in activities but also shared laughter and camaraderie. “It was surreal to see this idea come to life,” Southern reflects.

A Rich Tapestry of Experiences

Regular events now populate Leisure League’s calendar. From decorating pots at the House Plant Collective to aerial yoga at Aero Joe Pilates, initiatives have helped women explore new hobbies while supporting local businesses. For example, their glassblowing event turned participants into artisans, crafting colorful Christmas ornaments.

This variety ensures that each gathering becomes more than just a creative outlet; it’s an opportunity for Black women to exist and express themselves freely, outside the confines of societal expectations.

The Psychological Landscape

The need for such a supportive space cannot be understated. Economic challenges have disproportionately impacted Black women, with over 600,000 losing jobs since February 2025. This, combined with the heightened anxiety stemming from racial and gendered microaggressions, underscores the importance of Leisure League’s mission.

Lee and Southern aim to alleviate this mental burden, challenging the “Strong Black Women schema” that often demands unrealistic resilience. Creating a space that values authenticity allows members to let their guards down. “All feelings are welcomed,” Southern reassures attendees, making it clear that they can engage as much or as little as they feel comfortable.

Transforming Lives, One Event at a Time

The tangible impact of Leisure League’s nurturing approach is evident in personal transformations. Southern recalls a heartwarming moment at a Build-Your-Own-Bouquet event, where a typically reserved daughter gained confidence, inspired by the joyful atmosphere around her. These anecdotes highlight not just the activities but the deeper emotional connections that flourish within the community.

Southern sees a bright future for Leisure League, with aspirations to expand to neighboring cities like Huntsville and Montgomery. Her experiences as a therapist instilled in her the value of community, leading her to believe that the unique traits of individuals can only enhance the collective.

Emphasizing the interconnectedness of different backgrounds, Liz notes, “What makes you you is what boosts the community up.” It’s a philosophy that resonates deeply throughout Leisure League, fostering a rich, supportive environment where Black women can thrive together.